Week 4: The Legislature Flashcards
What is the term for a parliament with two chambers?
Bicameral
How many members of parliament are there?
650
How many members are needed for a majority?
326.
What are the three primary functions of Parliament?
- Formation of Government
- Holding Government to account
- Making laws
What system is used by parliament
First past the post
What was the proposed change offered in a referendum in 2011?
Alternative Voting Referendum
What percentage is required to be automatically declared the winner in the alternative voting system?
50%.
What is the issue with FPTP
Not representative of electorate.
What were the two circumstances under which the FTPA allowed for a snap election?
- 2/3 majority.
- Vote of no confidence and failure to build a government in 14 days.
What is the name of the Act which reversed FTPA?
Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022
Does the DCPA allow the PM to be litigated for calling an early general election?
No.
What is the Sailsbury Convention.
Lords cannot reject a bill that was contained within the governments manifesto.
What is the exception outlined in the Parliament Act 1911
Lords must assent to an extension of Parliaments life.
How long can the Lords delay money bills?
1 month.
How long can Lords delay a non-money bills?
1 year.
Which case highlighted that the Commons could not pass a bill repealing the 1911 Parliament Act, followed by an act extending the parliaments life.
R (Jackson) v Attorney General
What are the two key features of parliamentary privilege?
- Freedom of speech
- exclusive cognisance
Which Act guarantees parliamentary privilege
The Bill of Rights 1689, Art IX
‘What is said in within the laws of parliament cannot be inquired into by a court of law’
Bradlaugh v Gosset
‘Courts determines the scope of parliamentary privilege, but once a subject matter falls within parliamentary privilege, courts cannot question it’
Stockdayle v Hansard
‘The extent of parliamentary privilege is ultimately a matter for the court’
Chaytor
